Mercury (Hobart)

Set for magical season

- JIM ALOUAT

HARRY Potter fans are in for a magical treat this winter with the game of quidditch arriving in Hobart.

Healthy Hobart Goes Dark is a free program of sport and other exercise activities that builds on the original Healthy Hobart program started in February last year.

This year, aligning with the themes and vibrancy of Dark Mofo, Healthy Hobart Goes Dark will include medieval games, puffer-jacket yoga, Discosize dance sessions featuring glowsticks and disco balls and the headline event of quidditch.

The game, popularise­d by author J.K Rowling’s Harry Potter series, is now a fully fledged sport that real-life muggles can play.

Hobart Lord Mayor and Potter fan Ron Christie said he could not wait to participat­e.

“Personally, I am a big Harry Potter fan so I am excited about participat­ing in the game of quidditch. Some of my colleagues are keen to continue their regular yoga classes, albeit this time in a puffer jacket or a ski suit.”

Healthy Hobart Goes Dark will include 18 free sessions over June, July and August and Ald Christie said the aim was to encourage people of all ages and abilities to participat­e and stay active outdoors.

Healthy Tasmania managing director Lucy Byrne said the Healthy Hobart range catered for everyone.

“This program is the first we’ve delivered over winter in Hobart and we are keen to encourage the public to celebrate the cooler weather rather than lock themselves inside,” she said.

For details visit hobartcity. com.au/healthyhob­art.

 ?? Picture: RICHARD JUPE ?? WINTER GAMES: Kevin Hotson, yoga teacher Brooke Banks and Hobart Lord Mayor Ron Christie prepare for the Healthy Hobart Goes Dark program.
Picture: RICHARD JUPE WINTER GAMES: Kevin Hotson, yoga teacher Brooke Banks and Hobart Lord Mayor Ron Christie prepare for the Healthy Hobart Goes Dark program.

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